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AOPA member services that keep you flyingAOPA member services that keep you flying

August 1, 2011By Kathleen Dondzila King

2011 sweepstakes—your last chance Be sure your AOPA membership is current as of July 31, 2011, in order to be eligible to win this year’s sweepstakes airplane, a completely refurbished Cessna 182—the Crossover Classic. Increase your chances to win by enrolling in AOPA’s safe, secure, and convenient automatic annual renewal (AAR) program and you’ll receive five additional sweepstakes entries.

Did you know the past three AOPA sweepstakes winners were all enrolled in AAR? Enroll today for five more chances to win. The prize is valued at $155,000! Remember, the sweepstakes period ends July 31, 2011.

You can’t afford to miss AOPA Aviation Summit

Each year AOPA strives to make its annual convention, AOPA Aviation Summit, the must-attend event of the year for pilots and aviation enthusiasts. This year is no different. Your exhibit pass grants you unprecedented access to more than 450 exhibits showcasing the latest products in aviation along with a special feature in the hall that includes the 250-knot Sikorsky X2 world-record-setting helicopter and this year’s Collier Trophy winner. See more than 100 aircraft on display at Hartford-Brainard Airport along with music, food, and activities for the whole family.

Whether it’s refreshing your skills or learning a potentially lifesaving safety maneuver, becoming a better, more informed pilot is critical to your flying. Attending seminars is one important way to help keep your skills sharp and safe. It’s for that reason AOPA has developed more than 60 hours of educational seminars all available under one roof.

So, whether you’re a veteran attendee or new to AOPA Aviation Summit, you’re in for exciting new experiences. Plus, if you register now you can save up to 25 percent. We look forward to seeing you September 22 through 24, 2011, in Hartford, Connecticut. Register online today.

Be prepared for hurricane season

The Atlantic hurricane season officially began in June, although the storms typically peak in August. The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration’s (NOAA) Atlantic Hurricane Season Outlook is predicting a 65-percent chance of an above-normal season. Of course, while the weather experts can forecast probable activity, they can’t predict the location of landfall until the storm track has been established, and even then, storms have been known to deviate from their projected paths.

So, for aircraft owners who live on or near the Atlantic coast, the Gulf of Mexico, or the Caribbean Sea, having a hurricane protection plan for your aircraft is essential. Be sure you have hurricane insurance for your aircraft and that it includes relocation coverage. For those aircraft battened down to ride out the storm outside, be sure the tie down area has no loose objects that could blow into the aircraft. Either remove or secure things nearby, such as storage boxes. You might consider deflating the tires or digging holes for the wheels to keep the airplane in place. Make sure the control surfaces won’t move in the wind by using an internal gust lock, and perhaps a rudder lock as well. For more complete information on preparing your aircraft for hurricane season, read this month’s Answers for Pilots online. And read tips from the AOPA Insurance Agency. Questions? Call AOPA Monday through Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 6 p.m. Eastern time, 800-USA-AOPA (872-2672).